Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the
Integrated MPA
Q: How do MPA students receive information on an on-going basis?
A: During the fall semester, important news is presented in the Lyceum. Also each MPA student has a mail slot outside the Department of Accounting Office (CBA 4M.202). In addition, the MPA Program Office (CBA 2.302) has its own bulletin board, and important memos will be posted there.
Q: Who serves as academic advisor to integrated MPA students?
A: Kathy Saqer (kathy.saqer@mccombs.utexas.edu; [512] 471-6298), Jason Tasset (jason.tasset@mccombs.utexas.edu; [512] 471-2617) and Lynette Chapman-Vasill (lynette.chapman.vasill@mccombs.utexas.edu [512] 471-5347) are the academic advisors for integrated MPA students and are available to talk with students about long-range academic plans as well as specific course needs. In addition, a faculty member has been designated to provide students with career counseling for each track.
Q: When I complete my undergraduate course requirements, can I then receive my bachelor's degree?
A: No. The integrated MPA is a package deal -- students receive both the BBA and the MPA degrees when all undergraduate and graduate courses are completed.
Q: When do integrated MPA students start taking graduate courses?
A: Students generally take their first graduate course during the fall semester of their senior year. By virtue of being a student with the integrated MPA major code, you have access to graduate accounting and business courses.
Q: Do I have to complete all of my BBA coursework before I make application to graduate school?
A: No. Typically after their first year in the program, integrated MPA students take graduate and undergraduate coursework concurrently.
Q: If I am admitted to the integrated MPA, do I eventually have to apply for admission to the Graduate School?
A: Yes. Graduate School applications must be completed by February 1st of the second or fourth year for fall admission; applications for spring semester admission must be completed by September 15th. In the MPA program, a student must be in the Graduate School for two long semesters. (There is no exception to this rule.) To apply, a student must have taken the GMAT exam. Historically, students have not had difficulty in gaining admission to the Graduate School. Note: You do not start paying graduate tuition and fees until you have been admitted (even though you will take some graduate courses earlier).
Q: When should I plan to take the GMAT?
A: You must have taken the GMAT exam before you make application to the Graduate School of Business. The program recommends that you take it no later than December of your fourth year. The GMAT is now offered weekly, so you have more flexibility in scheduling it. For information on the GMAT, you can call
Q: Does everyone who wants an internship get one?
A: Unfortunately not everyone, although the great majority of qualified students (in excess of 90% in the spring semester) have generally received internships in the past. Internship decisions are based upon academic performance as well as communication and interpersonal skills.
